Layered spaghetti, creamy cheeses, savory meat, and rich sauce come together in this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole recipe—pure comfort food magic!
Okay, let me set the scene. It was a Sunday afternoon, the kind where you should be relaxing but instead, you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make for dinner. Sound familiar? That’s exactly how this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole was born in my kitchen.
I had leftover spaghetti from a half-hearted attempt at dinner the night before, random cheeses that needed to be used (or tossed), and a jar of marinara sauce just hanging out in the pantry. It felt like fate—or desperation. Either way, I started layering everything in a baking dish, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best.
When I pulled it out of the oven, it was golden, bubbly, and smelled amazing. I wasn’t prepared for the reaction at the dinner table, though. My family raved about it like I’d just won a cooking competition. Now, every time I make it, it feels like I’m recreating that little bit of kitchen magic.
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
- Layers of Comfort: Spaghetti, creamy cheese, savory meat, and tangy sauce—it’s like lasagna’s easier-going cousin.
- Make-Ahead Wonder: Prep it earlier in the day (or even the night before), and just bake when you’re ready.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you want leftovers to save the day later in the week.
- Ridiculously Delicious: The kind of dish that gets everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds).
Ingredient Notes:
Here’s the lowdown on what makes this casserole so good:
- Spaghetti Noodles: Cook them al dente—trust me, no one likes mushy spaghetti.
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both add incredible flavor. Can’t decide? Use half of each!
- Cheeses (Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, Cottage Cheese): This trio creates the creamiest, dreamiest middle layer. If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta works beautifully, too.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps keep those noodles from sticking together.
- Spaghetti Sauce: Go with your favorite jarred sauce, or make it from scratch if you’re feeling fancy.
- Parmesan Cheese: The final sprinkle that brings everything together.
How To Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by boiling your spaghetti noodles in salted water until they’re al dente. You want them firm enough to hold up to all the layers and sauce. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a skillet, cook your ground beef or sausage (or a mix of both) over medium heat. Once it’s browned and smells amazing, drain off any fat and stir in your spaghetti sauce.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Blend until smooth. This is your secret weapon for a super creamy casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Butter the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a layer of spaghetti, then spread half the cheese mixture on top. Add another layer of spaghetti, top with a bit more butter, and then pour the meat sauce evenly over everything.
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Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.
- Freeze: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Meat Alternatives: Swap the beef or sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option.
- Cheese Swaps: Try ricotta instead of cottage cheese, or add mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a pop of freshness.
- Spice It Up: A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce adds a nice kick.
What to Serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
This dish is hearty on its own, but a few simple sides make it even better:
- Garlic Bread: Because carbs on carbs = happiness.
- Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Roasted Veggies: Think broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a touch of green.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?
Yes! Just be sure to cook it al dente to avoid it getting too soft during baking.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Assemble it, freeze it, and bake it when you’re ready for a comforting dinner.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is one of those recipes that feels special every single time you make it. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for guests. Plus, it’s cheesy, saucy, and totally irresistible. So go ahead—make it, share it, and let me know if it becomes a family favorite for you, too!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 package of spaghetti noodles cooked according to package directions
- 1 pound of ground beef or ground Italian sausage or a combination of both
- 1 jar of spaghetti sauce your choice of flavor
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 8 ounces of cream cheese softened
- 1 cup of cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1/2 cup of butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by cooking the spaghetti noodles as, per the instructions on the package until they're firm to the bite. Once cooked drain them. Set them aside.
- Next in a skillet cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) over medium heat until it is fully browned. Remove any fat. Set the meat aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl combine the cream, cream cheese and cottage cheese (or ricotta) until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Take a 9x13 inch baking pan. Place small pieces of butter at the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles on top of the butter.
- Evenly spread the cheese mixture over this layer of spaghetti noodles.
- Add another layer of remaining spaghetti noodles on top of the cheese mixture.
- Place a few pieces of butter on this top layer of spaghetti noodles.
- Spoon over it the meat and spaghetti sauce mixture evenly.
- Bake this casserole in your preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Once 30 minutes have passed, sprinkle your desired amount of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 10 minutes or so until you see that the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
- Remove from your oven. Let it cool off before serving.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
